Liberal democrats Flashcards
1
Q
what are the origins of the liberal democrats
A
- formed in 1988 with the merger of the liberal party and the social democratic party
- they used to the main party of government in the early 20th century
- the SDP was a result of four leading politicians who left labour in 1981
- Roy Jenkins, Bill Rodgers, Shirley Williams and David Owen felt that the labour party had become increasingly left
- they were known as the gang of four and in 1983 they secured 26% of votes gaining 23 seats in parliament
2
Q
what is liberalism?
A
- a political ideology associated with notions of personal liberty, and a limited government
- classical liberalism: involves minimal state intervention, stressing the importance of freedom, toleration and equality (some was developed from the new right)
- modern liberals are more compassionate, see the need for the regulation of the market as well as the provision of basic welfare. This then developed into views associated with the mixed economy
3
Q
explore the liberal democrats under Nick Clegg 2007
A
- more orthodox policies on issues such as constitutional reform and protection of civil libertiess
- orange book liberals (classical)
- social liberals (modern)
4
Q
Name policies associated with liberal democrats in 2015 party manifesto:
A
- raise income tax threshold to £12,000
- £14bn from tax rises on corporations and the wealthy and increase the tax charges to non domiciled residents.
- end continuous at sea nuclear deterrent
- scrap police and crime commissions and end imprisonment for possessing drugs for personal use
